We all need a certain amount of humidity in our homes for our comfort and health. But too much or too little humidity can result in a number of problems, ranging from condensation on windows, moldy bathrooms, and musty basements, to far more serious problems such as permanent structural damage or respiratory allergies.

If your home has a humidity problem, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has a variety of tips to help you control the problem before it gets out of hand, including:

• Reduce or remove sources of moisture.
• Consider installing exhaust fans in the bathroom or kitchen.
• Provide adequate heat to all rooms in your home to keep surfaces warm and to avoid condensation.
• In winter, seal up leaks with weatherstripping and caulking. This will increase humidity if the air in your home is too dry, and will also reduce your heating bill.
• Use a dehumidifier in the basement from spring to fall, and keep basement windows closed during that period.